After my recent petition on the need  to replace High Schools in Dunfermline which attracted hundreds of signatures, I wrote to John Swinney to explain the strength of feeling in Dunfermline for a resolution to this problem. I was delighted that hundreds of people signed the petition, and I am hopeful we will see Scottish Government intervention soon to ensure replacement High Schools at Woodmill and St Columba’s. In addition to this I spoke at the Full Council Meeting this week in favour of an amendment to a motion urging for regular updates to the Education and Children’s Services Committee about the options for replacing High Schools in Dunfermline and West Fife. While the Administration voted against this, I hope they will take on the message that people need to know more and that transparency is needed.

In terms of my letter to John Swinney, the text of the letter is as follows:

Dear Mr Swinney,

I am writing in my capacity as one of the Councillors for Dunfermline South. As I am sure you are aware there is a significant capacity issue locally which requires the construction of new High Schools, and that Fife Council has set in place £50 million of capital funding for the purpose of building new High Schools in Fife. However as you will know this is not enough and Scottish Government funding is also required to supplement this.

Over the past few months I have been running a petition locally calling for the Scottish Government to provide funding. Over 300 people have signed this and I am taking the opportunity to write to you to explain the strength of feeling locally on this issue. I hope you in your capacity as Education Secretary can work with Fife Council in order to bring a successful resolution to this.

For your information the text of the petition is as follows:

“We, the undersigned, back James Calder’s call for the Scottish Government to provide the funding to back up funds already proposed by Fife Council to pay for new High Schools to replace Woodmill and St Columba’s. We believe this is necessary get to go to school locally and that the best possible education wil be provided.”

Many thanks for your consideration and I look forward to your response.

Best Regards

James Calder

Liberal Democrat Councillor for Dunfermline South